The local outlet of a major retailer has helped the city of Columbia obtain some much needed fire equipment.
“Walmart offers a grant for emergency services of $1,000,” Fire Chief Jeff McKenzie said. “The city matched the grant and we were able to purchase nine helmets for our firefighters. We have three yellow, three red and three black helmets.”
McKenzie said the ongoing support from Walmart has been much appreciated.
“They were also able to donate a TV for training purposes,” he said. “They also made a donation of a TV several years ago for our training room. They’ve always been excellent supporters of the fire department.”
McKenzie also thanked Walmart Manager Mike Lowery and firefighter Tyler Creel for their efforts.
Lowery said the grants are part of Walmart’s commitment to the communities that it serves.
“We are glad to help the Columbia Fire Department with this grant,” he said.
Lowery and Mayor Justin McKenzie were on hand as Chief McKenzie showed of the helmets last week at the Pearl Street station. Firefighters, lieutenants, engineers and captains have since received the new helmets.
Pictured Above: Showing off the new helmets and TV are from left, Columbia Fire Chief Jeff McKenzie, Mayor Justin McKenzie, Walmart Manager Mike Lowery, Zachary Peak, Chandler Moore, Kenneth Cooper, Will Boyd, Tyler Creel, Chris Delaney and Roderick Frelix. | Photo by Mark Rogers
